Upcoming Palestinian Elections

The Liberal Democrats believe that a two-state solution represents the only political settlement which can deliver peace, dignity and security for both Israelis and Palestinians. As we work with international partners to advance that goal, it’s critical that we reflect and act on the opportunities presented by forthcoming elections across both Palestine and Israel.

President Abbas has confirmed that legislative and presidential elections will take place over the next year. This is a vital step in the process of Palestinian state-building.

It is critical those elections are free, fair and open. Ministers must work with President Abbas and Palestinian Authority (PA) officials to help deliver these - including ensuring access for international election monitors. Ensuring that these elections are competitive will mark an important step in advancing further democratic reform across Palestine. Decisions on which party might be best for the future of Palestine belong to the people of Palestine, and it is critical that they can exercise a genuine choice. The Fatah Administration must therefore support and encourage candidates from other parties participating, and not inhibit them from competing.

I and my Liberal Democrat colleagues are calling on the Government to urgently outline what steps they are taking to support Palestinian authorities to deliver free, fair, open and competitive elections in the coming months.

Beyond the holding of elections, further democratic reform is critical to ensure the Palestinian Authority can act as an effective state-building force. These must include strengthening the rule of law and protections for freedom of expression, cracking down on corruption, and ending the operation of the Martyrs Fund. Our Government must support and hold the PA to account for the implementation of these reforms. We are therefore urging the Government to take concrete steps to ensure essential democratic reforms are implemented within the Palestinian Authority as soon as practically possible.